India Seeks Bids for Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft

India is poised to invite bids for 114 multi-role fighter aircraft in 2025. This initiative is crucial for strengthening the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF’s fleet has dwindled to 31 squadrons, below the approved strength of 42. This reduction comes at a time when China is rapidly modernising its air force. The need for advanced combat aircraft is pressing.

Background of the MRFA Project

The Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) project aims to enhance India’s aerial combat capabilities. The government first sought bidders in 2018 but has since faced delays. The IAF’s current reliance on ageing Russian and ex-Soviet aircraft necessitates a modernisation effort.

Potential Competitors

Several major defence firms are vying for the MRFA contract. Key players include Lockheed Martin and Boeing from the United States, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), France’s Dassault Aviation, Sweden’s Saab AB, and Germany’s Eurofighter. Each company is preparing to meet the requirements set by the Government of India.

Lockheed Martin’s F-21 Proposal

Lockheed Martin is proposing the F-21, an India-specific variant of the F-16. This aircraft is designed to be manufactured in India with local partners. The company is optimistic about the deal and is working on supply chain logistics.

Russian Offerings

UAC is likely to offer advanced jets like the Sukhoi Su-57. This stealth fighter boasts superior capabilities compared to previous models. Russia has traditionally been a key supplier of military hardware to India. However, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has complicated these supply chains.

Saab’s Gripen E

Sweden’s Saab is also in the running with its JAS-39 Gripen E jet. Saab claims to have a cost-effective solution and is actively seeking local partners. The Gripen E has received positive feedback from Indian officials.

Past Acquisition Attempts

The MRFA project follows an earlier attempt to procure 126 jets, which began in 2007. This effort was abandoned in 2015 when India opted for 36 Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation. The Rafale remains a contender for the MRFA project.

Strategic Importance

The MRFA project is vital for India’s defence strategy. It aims to counterbalance the military capabilities of neighbouring countries. The IAF is under pressure to enhance its operational readiness amid evolving regional dynamics.

Future Prospects

The coming months will be critical as India finalises its requirements and evaluates bids. The outcome will shape the future of the IAF and its combat capabilities. The focus will be on building a robust domestic defence industry while ensuring operational effectiveness.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of India’s defence procurement policy on its military readiness.
2. What are the strategic challenges faced by India in modernising its air force? Explain with suitable examples.
3. What is the significance of indigenous defence production in India? Comment on its impact on national security.
4. Explain the role of international partnerships in enhancing India’s defence capabilities. How can these partnerships be optimised?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of India’s defence procurement policy on its military readiness.

1. India’s defence procurement policy aims to modernize the armed forces but has faced delays and bureaucratic hurdles.
2. Reliance on foreign suppliers affects operational readiness and creates vulnerabilities in supply chains.
3. Indigenous production initiatives like ‘Make in India’ are crucial for self-reliance but require time to mature.
4. Current fleet deficiencies, such as the reduction of IAF squadrons, highlight the urgency of effective procurement.
5. Strategic partnerships and timely acquisitions can enhance military capabilities and readiness against regional threats.

2. What are the strategic challenges faced by India in modernising its air force? Explain with suitable examples.

1. India’s air force modernization is challenged by a dwindling fleet, currently at 31 squadrons, below the approved strength.
2. Rival nations, particularly China and Pakistan, are rapidly upgrading their air capabilities, creating an asymmetrical threat.
3. Dependency on aging Russian aircraft complicates modernization efforts and requires diversification of suppliers.
4. Geopolitical tensions, such as the Ukraine conflict, affect the reliability of traditional arms suppliers like Russia.
5. Balancing indigenous production with timely acquisitions remains a critical challenge for sustaining operational readiness.

3. What is the significance of indigenous defence production in India? Comment on its impact on national security.

1. Indigenous defence production enhances self-reliance, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and improving security.
2. It encourages technological advancements and innovation within the domestic defence sector, boosting economic growth.
3. Local production can lead to faster procurement processes and better supply chain management for critical systems.
4. Strengthening the domestic industry contributes to job creation and skill development in the defence sector.
5. Indigenous capabilities can enhance India’s strategic autonomy, allowing for more independent military decisions.

4. Explain the role of international partnerships in enhancing India’s defence capabilities. How can these partnerships be optimised?

1. International partnerships provide access to advanced technologies and expertise, crucial for modernizing India’s defence forces.
2. Collaborations with countries like the U.S., France, and Russia can lead to co-production and technology transfer agreements.
3. These partnerships can enhance interoperability with allied forces, improving operational effectiveness in joint missions.
4. To optimize partnerships, India should focus on clear strategic objectives, transparency, and long-term commitments from partners.
5. Strengthening local industry involvement in international deals will ensure sustainable growth and capacity building in India’s defence sector.